DuPage forest district celebrates dog park renovations

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County invites visitors and their canine companions to celebrate the opening of the new off-leash dog area at Mayslake Forest Preserve in Oak Brook.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony begins at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 26, near the entrance to the off-leash area on St. Paschal's Drive, south of 31st Street. The Hot Diggity Dog Day open house then runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Ribbon-cutting at off-leash dog area at Mayslake Forest Preserve, St. Paschal's Drive south of 31st St., Oak Brook; Hot Diggity Dog Day near the Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W. 31st St.

Cost: Free

Info: dupageforest.org

The renovated area has several new features -- a separate half-acre fenced area for small dogs, a quarter-mile looped limestone trail, additional seating and shelter space, durable synthetic turf on high-traffic paths between shelters and play areas, and new drainage to reduce muddy areas.

"We appreciate our visitors' patience during the renovations, and we're confident that they'll enjoy the improvements," said Matt Blazek, manager of site operations.

"The new trail along the perimeter will give dogs and their owners an easy path to traverse the space, additional rest areas will offer more shade, and smaller dogs will have a designated space reserved for them."

The Hot Diggity Dog Day open house takes place on the grounds around Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W. 31st St. Free activities include games, crafts, paw readings, agility demonstrations, letterboxing with your dog, and dog CPR training.

Dogs must have valid, pre-purchased district permits to enter the off-leash area. For details on permits, call Visitor Services weekdays at (630) 933-7248. Permits are not required for the Hot Diggity Dog Day open house, and dogs must remain leashed at the event.